cornus officinalis

Cornus officinalis is a medicinal plant widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) under the name Shan Zhu Yu (山茱萸). The dried ripe fruit is the primary part used. It is traditionally classified as an herb that "stabilizes and binds," with actions to tonify and preserve Kidney and Liver function, stop sweating, benefit Yang and Qi, assist menstruation, and stop bleeding[2][4][5]. Modern research has identified several bioactive compounds in Cornus officinalis fruit—including iridoid glycosides (such as morroniside), oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, polyphenols, flavonoids—which contribute to its pharmacological effects[1][6]. These include antioxidant activity; protective effects on liver cells; neuroprotective properties via promotion of neurogenesis and angiogenesis; inhibition of cartilage degradation through suppression of matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP13) and nuclear factor-κB signaling; improvement in erectile dysfunction; enhancement of sperm quality; antidiabetic effects by controlling postprandial hyperglycemia through alpha-glucosidase inhibition; antibacterial/antifungal activity against various pathogens[1][6][7]. In TCM practice it is rarely used alone but rather as part of multi-herb formulas for conditions such as impotence, tinnitus, excessive sweating or urination (spermatorrhea/enuresis), heavy menstrual bleeding/leukorrhea/diarrhea/lumbago/fevers/recovery after illness[2][4][5]. It also has a long history as a tonic food ingredient in porridge/wine/jam. Its mechanism involves multiple pathways including antioxidative stress reduction and modulation of inflammatory mediators.

Other names

Cornelian cherryJapanese cornelDogwoodShan Zhu Yu山茱萸Shan Yu Rou